This modern twist on the traditional Bridal Rehearsal Dinner was the brainchild of Stylist, Curator and Producer Roberta Nasser and her White Stole Couture Collection as a BridalTea Partyhappening set in the old-world elegance of the Mayflower Park Hotel in Seattle, Washington on March 11, 2018 in anticipation of the upcoming Royal Wedding.

Kelly is known in her universe of Wedding for mesmerizing and captivating views into the hearts, minds and souls of her subjects - and she did not fail our Royal Party. John is known in his universe of Fashion for stunning and jawdropping views into the hearts, minds and deep passion of his subjects - and he served glamour up on a Silver Platter to our Royal Party!

The Over-the-Rainbow results show us how the “New Royals” artfully live, upending our conventional notions of either Plain-Jane Rehearsal Dinners, or Boring Tea Parties…and take us into the rarefied world of Celebratory Luxe. As any “Special Wedding or Evening Gala Event” should! ​Upon viewing this series of stunning images, one might ask ‘Who here is the Bride!?” because each woman’s look reigns supreme unto itself, and is capable of taking center stage at the party.

That, my dear, is precisely the point!

See if you can choose!

Watch ourblogfor full Coverage of our photoshoot's celebration of the Royal Wedding Day!

ViewWhite Stole’sentire collection for size and color ranges of Stoles, Shawl and Foulard Wraps, Vintage Stoles, and Cape Boleros for purchase, or rental, on our website.

With all the pomp, circumstance and ceremony fit for a proper Royal WeddingParty, White Stoledid what it always does to celebrate Romantic Milestones by bringing together the chicest of Seattle models’ silhouettes with the luxe of silk, satin, lace and fine china, from old to new, to capture the times we live in.

No matter the era, the best Couture Creations, and the gifted Photographers who have captured their allure, have always layered multiple elements and meanings into their work. To that end, White Stole’s luxurious photoshoot brought their Creative Universe to celebrate the time-honored Bridal Rehearsal Dinner in the most Royal-fashioned way – with a high-fashion Tea Party!

This modern twist on the traditional Bridal Rehearsal Dinner was the brainchild of Stylist, Curator and Producer Roberta Nasserand her WhiteStoleCouture Collection as a Bridal Tea Party happening set in the old-world elegance of the Mayflower Park Hotel in Seattle, Washington on March 11, 2018 in anticipation of the upcoming Royal Wedding between an American woman, Meghan Markle, and a British gentleman, Prince Harry.

​Being high-season around the world again for a Royal Wedding, White Stole created this collaborative event to span both the fashion and the wedding industries in Seattle, WA, taking a fresh look at this theme from a truly 'American' and 'Seattle' viewpoint.

Watch our blogfor more Live Coverage of our photoshoot's celebration of the Royal Wedding Day!

The Fashionista’s current accessory of choice has become a must-havefor fashion lovers everywhere. Now brides are reclaiming it, reinventing it, and declaring it as the Essential Bridal Accessory that it is for a Spring Garden Wedding – The Silk Stole Wrap!

What could be better than having one, single Wrap Accessory to make your dream Spring Garden Wedding both functional….and perfect?

Whether you are having or attending a Spring Garden, City or Country Chapel or Gala event, if you are in need of aLuxe Bauble for yourself, or that will serve as a‘Thank You’or ‘Adore You’Giftfor your bride or bridesmaids, look no further than the luxury-approved curation White Stole has spent hours putting together.

White Stole’s influential Italian Luxury Couture Silk Wrap design and production of printed, solid and yarn-dyed luxury Women's Wraps in silk or cashmere use the traditional, heritage-based hand-dyed and silk-screened custom-manufacturing process that has long been used by our manufacturing companies in Como, Italy since 1945. The meticulous workmanship or our Silk Stoles are guaranteed to last a lifetime with proper care.

Over the millennium, Fashionistas have asked: What is that Je ne sais quoithat fashionable ‘It Girls’ have that the rest of us admire and try to make our own? Whether it’s an Evening Dress, a Little Black Dress, or Pencil Skirt, there’s just something CHICabout a cultivated look that tops it all off with the perfect Statement Accessory piece.Whereas layering several Statement Piecesonto one outfit is itself a ‘look,’ fashion deftness is what brings forward the Haute Look and keeps us away from the ‘Sin of Overdressing.’Taking a lesson from these photos of stylish European Women seen on the streets of Paris this year, we can see just how elusive a sexy look can be. But try to master it, we must! In an effort to distill the essence of the perfect Haute Look for Wedding, Evening, Day, or StreetWearin all its effortless yet refined history, let’s start with what we know truly, always and forever works: #1 – Choosing Gowns, Dresses and corresponding Wrap Accessories which are more ‘Body-Skimming’ and less ‘Body-Revealing.’Keeping our focus on our ‘Silhouette’ will bring forward results that are ultimately more sensual and sympathetic to the differing sizes, shapes and ages that we bring to either our Street Wear or our Wedding Party.#2 – Paying strict attention to our Wardrobe Coordinates, we allow our Accessories to float on a solid canvas that blends our look together. Whether it’s topping our Blue Gown with an Embroidered Beige Silk Stole Wrapwith diamond earrings and wristlet, wrapping a Black Silk Shawl Wrap over a Black and white Evening Dress on the way to the Theatre, embracing our shoulders with a Silver Lilac Shawl Wrapover a Little Black Dress for an Evening Dinner event, out On-the-Town during Paris Fashion Week in a Lace Evening Dress andWhite Vintage Fur Stole Capearound our shoulders, tying aPastel Blue Gray Silk Stole Wrap around our neck over a Floral Day Dress on a shopping trip, or jetting off to the Monet Museum with a Silk Foulard Wrap tied at our neck, our goal is to unify all elements into a seamless whole.#3 – Without question we ‘Go-For-The-Flow’ in our ensemble. Nothing starched or stiff will do – and that goes for hair as well. A simple twisted chignon pulled off the face, pinned or sleek looks romantic against the highlights of either an Embroidered or Floral Graphic, Silk Satin or Silk Chiffon Stole wrapped around our natural looks that we meld together for a natural glow.#4 - We strive to 'delight' those who behold us! While some of us hold firmly to the belief in neutral monotones in our Gowns and Dresses, we nonetheless uphold the truth that every Chic French or Italian Woman knows is essential: theOne Flirty Item. Of course, lovers of White Stole know that One Silk Stole or Shawl Wrap – whether floral, graphic, embroidered or embellishedwith our black eyeliner and heels will steal the day for us!

#5 – In our hearts and minds we know that nothing cheap will satisfy us. We are prepared to INVEST for the long haul in a Couture Silk Stole, Scarf or Foulard Classic Wrap that will act as a cornerstone in our wardrobe throughout the years to come. And exist as the Perfect Accessory no matter at what age we wear it. We are passionate about keeping our Luxe Silk Stole Wrap Accessory in immaculate condition to allow us to wear and treasure it for life…and simply change our clothes around it!

#6 – We don’t hesitate to BE BOLD. Whereas this thinking begins with our lingerie and lace stockings under our well-cut basics cut to flatter our bodies, it ends with eccentric touches in our Luxe Accessory. Since our goal is to find what we love and make it our ‘Signature,’we choose our Silk Stole or Shawl Wrap piece for ourselves or those in our entourage to take pleasure in ‘being a woman’ in love with…herself!#7 – We eliminate too much of anything that will take the spotlight off our glowing Silhouette...whether that be clashing colors, blush or lipstick, too much gloss, too much hairspray, too many baubles, too many ruffles, or too many bouquets!#8 – Above all, we Bedazzle. Our goal is to allow our One Perfectly Stunning Wrap Accessory to steal the show!

Remember your SUMMER OF LOVEin the flowing, fearless drape of a colorfulFloral Silk StoleWrapon your Wedding Day….without guilt!In today’s era, Bridesmaids' gowns are invariably shorter and chosen in go-with-everything shades of lilac, mint green, beige or black so your Bridal Party can use them as Street-Wear after the wedding.But rather than invite your Arm Candyto the party to function as a “backdrop,” White Stole ravishly suggests that you elevate your closest girlfriends to the level of wearable Floral Arrangements to flaunt your assets!Whether your bridal beauties wear the floral 'Fabiola'or the 'Flores' Couture Silk Satin Stole Wrap to your Garden, Veranda or Country Wedding, or they each wear a different color of Couture Embroidered Lace Silk Stole Wrap like those in White Stole's“Sophisticated Evening Lace” Collection, the notion that the colors of your Wedding Themeare reflected in the color of the Stole Wraps that embrace you will carry your Wedding Day into the aura of Good Omen with surreal flourish!And whether you and your ladies prefer red, French rose or sky blue silk, White Stole has the Stole, Shawl or Foulard Wrapwhose colors can be used to create a dainty bouquet for your Bridal Beauties…a massive Bridal Bouquet for yourself… and serve as the color palate for your entire Wedding Ceremony and Reception.

Reclaim your First Embrace!Whether your Bridal Attendantsare wearing a strapless, mini, or a flowing maxi dress, let your Ladies’ true beauty shine for you at your event as they cover bare shoulders at the chapel, or reveal them throughout the day - while together you and your entourage bring excitement to your Wedding Day!The secret to a perfect Summer Wedding is always a little OOMPH, splash, sparkle and glamour in your overall Wedding Theme andBridal Attire.The main attraction, the Bride, dressed in colors symbolic of her most perfect beauty, and her Ladies-In-Waiting are surrounding her in a way symbolic of romantic love. By embracing you and yours with Couture Floral Silk Stoles,White Stole ​wishes you the Summer Wedding Day of Stole Love!Shop the full Wedding Stole, Shawl and Foulard Wrap lineup now and keep your eyes peeled for more wedding coverage from us throughout the Summer Wedding Season!ViewWhiteStole’sentire collection for size and color ranges of Stoles, Shawl and Foulard Wraps, Vintage Stoles, Cape Boleros and Veiled Bridal Hair Accessoriesfor purchase, or rental, on our website.

​YourYacht Club, Country Club, Verandaor Classic City Wedding Galawill feel all tied up in Love with this flowing ribbon design that wraps brilliantly colored sweeping highlights around shoulders, arms or neck, taking simple blue and white into technicolor.In an era when the bridal marketplace is fueled by emerging mega, online, vanilla-looking shopping, White Stole’s Chic, Haute Bridal shoppers roll with an exclusive entourage ofWedding CoutureSalons like White Stole who help them alter convention to bring fresh, new images and memories from all styles and traditions to their Wedding Day’s photo album.

Being thatWhite Stolehas no physical stores, we are able to bring these Couture Creations, tooled by master craftsmen and women who put their love and attention into each design, Direct To Youat our cost ​This iconic brands’ graphic collection features rich color blocking and design to add superb styling to timeless, hand-crafted quality essentials…all with a decidedly cool Modern Wedding flare. Wrap-up these graphic, silky-coolStole and Shawl WrapLuxe Classicsfor a very stylishHauteWedding Day!

Tell the story of your Wedding Day for a lifetime with the glow of a pure silk couture Bridal WrapHeirloom.

And the best part of the story is that each piece that passes from our hands to yours gives you the perfectHeirloomto pass along to those you love.

Did you know that the fashion industry is the second largest polluter in the world, next to oil? Never fear, because by buying from White Stoleyou’re doing something good for the planet! Allow us to explain our enthusiasm…White Stole was born to help our savvy Brides, Bridesmaids, Mothers-of-the Bride and Wedding Guests and Luxury Goods Lovers alikecontribute to the decline in the demand and production of “fast-fashion” items by buying high-qualitywhen others are buying low.Although most people assume that most of what they wear is natural fiber clothing, this is far from the truth. On top of how the fiber was grown and produced to create the fabric, how the fiber was processed, dyed and finished must be considered. Conventional manufacturingprocesses rely heavily on chemicals to clean and bleach fibers to prepare for spinning, weaving, knitting or dying - often with heavy metals and large amounts of water to flush and clean fabrics all the way up to and including the final finishing step in the garment process. The facts regarding production of new materials also make vintage, recycled, reclaimed and surplus fabric arguably sustainable choices, as the raw materials require no agriculture and no further manufacturing to produce. Of utmost importance at White Stoleis the fact that“Natural” fiber clothing refers to clothingmade from fiberfound in nature,such as the vegetable fibers of Cotton, Hemp, Linen and Flax; the protein fibers such as Wool, Alpaca and Cashmere; and the elastic fibrous secretions of silkworm larvae in cocoons used to create Silk. Each of the amazing natural fabrics in the White Stole Collection, irrespective of their distinct production and processing methods, nevertheless take them worlds-away from the man-made, artificially-created synthetic fibers which are chemically and structurally altered to the extent that they are toxic to both the person wearing them as well as to the planet.For instance, despite the fact that all Cottonhas a large carbon footprint for its cultivation and highly chemically treated production,Organic Cottonis considered a more sustainable choice for fabric because it is completely free of destructive toxic pesticides and chemical fertilizers. And while many designers have begun experimenting with Bamboofiber which absorbs greenhouse gases during its life cycle and grows quickly and plentifully without pesticides, Bamboofabric can cause environmental harm in production due to the chemicals used to create a soft viscose from hard bamboo. Some believe Hemp is one of the best choices for eco fabrics due to its ease of growth, though it remains illegal to grow in some countries. Most relevant and adored in the eyes of followers of White Stole,Silk, the“Queen of Fiber” and cherished by couture lovers the planet over, is the fact that there are multiple ways to grow and harvest secretions from the natural larvae – from wild to ancient methods that date back to the Ancient Chinese and the Roman Empire to more eco-friendly methods today.

Whether choosing one continuous silk threadthat has been dried, brushed and reeled around a spool to form one silk “raw”thread with its exceptional ability to absorb dye - or silk salvaged and harvested from a cocoon in smaller strandsthen spun or woven in ways similar to cotton or hemp to allow more silkworms to survive - real Silk holds the remarkably different feel and visible glossy luster, natural amber glow, texture, durability, natural stain-resistance, and high-quality look to the knowing designer and consumer of fine fabric.

As with all natural fibers,Silkfashion is a blending of compromises. Whether the silk is hand-loomedin rural India by ancient artisan weavers or pure-dyedwith mild-acid, environmentally low-impact fiber reactive dyes in a modern Italian cottage-industry factory using an age-old creation processas in thegoods presented in the White Stole Collection, the raising of silkworms is, by its very nature, sustainable. Andsilk is biodegradable!

Silkfabric when produced by weavers on handlooms has a near zero energy footprint, while silk produced by powerloomed textile factories are evaluated on a company-basis to determine sustainability. The environmentally- focused createurs are the suppliers White Stole has built their business upon.

White Stoleexists to offer Luxury Couturecreated with the highest-quality and integrity, as well as sustainable and ethical standards in the handmade tradition that has built the reputation of respect and admiration the Italian Silk Industryholds to this day.

In essence, it’s a double bottom line — buying from White Stole you are doing your small part to create a cleaner environment by choosing “Pure”Silk fabric that is already produced, dyed and finished in an organic, low-impact environment while being the chicest of Planet-Lovers!

Join White Stole in making great strides toward a more sustainable fashion industry with “Pure” Silkand Vintage Wraps!

White Stole's 'Charming Rose~Lilac' Couture Bridal StoleWrap Wedding Accessory in sheer Silk Chiffon from the Signature Valentino Collection ​takes the concept of sheer into the heavenly with its cascading rose design in shades from lavender and lilac to pale pink on blushed white that wraps sweeping pastels around shoulders, arms or neck in any wedding theme or setting - from anUrban or City Wedding, to a refinedCountryor Veranda Wedding- in any season.

Delicately highlight yourModernHaute BridalParty's silhouette with a rainbow of pastel shades that make your BridalGown and Bridesmaid Dressesnot only something to dream about...but to remember for a lifetime! A perfectly flowingHeirloom Gift for the bride and bridesmaids who know how to put the fun into elegance.

To address their discriminating Brides’ tastes, White Stole has curated an Across-the-Era Collection of Couture Stole and Shawl Wraps to satisfy the predilection of women devoted to handmade, hand-silk-screened, heritage luxury goods who crave Haute Wedding Couturefashion at an affordable price.​

White Stole was born to help you feel like the exquisite creature you are with Couture Luxury Accessories that will last a lifetime….at affordable, Direct to Youprices!

An Island Beach Wedding typically means a strong offshore breeze with blazing sun during the day and cooler air at sundown. And when we think of Island Resort Beach Wear, of all the accessories that come to mind to pair with our wedge sandals, feather-light maxi dresses, and loosely pinned locks we immediately opt to finish with a brightly colored clutch.

It's the "Secret Sauce" to your looking chic and polished, as well as stylishly comfortable from here...to there. Whether wrapped around shoulders to chase away the chill brought by clouds or the evening breeze, shielding your shoulders from blazing sun, or draped around your neck, wrists or elbows as you walk oceanside, poolside or countryside, it's aWrap that will keep you dancing with delight into twilight!

Not to mention how perfect it feels to be wrapped-up in for the long plane ride back home after your Dream Wedding! The history of the Polynesia-influenced PareoShawlhas resurfaced time and again onto the fashion scene since its first appearance in the United States in the 1950’s From runway to glossy magazine and on into street style blogs, the 100% Silk 'Pareo'Shawl Accessory has captivated our nation for decades.

White Stole suggests you not spend a minute fighting off either sunburn or the night breeze, and instead remember to stow Leonard Paris’Island Resort Wedding Season’s version of the perfect Wedding Wrap. Impossible to forget, this Beach Resort Wedding Wrap is a step in the right direction, elevating your wedding as well as your beach days and night…. into sultry, oceanside style!

In the “Genevieve” Pareo Shawl Wrapby Leonard Paris, we are as equally mesmerized by ​its lush floral design in Persian rose, violet, golden yellow on pale pink as we are thrilled at the thought of wearing this bit of luxury silk bling onto the sand - for both our wedding vows and our ocean inspiration!

White Stole’s collection of Island-inspired Silk Stoles, “Pareo” Shawls and Foulards call-out to your sheer maxi dress, bikini and rhinestone sandals to take them with you… all the way to Island Wedding Style!

And the best part is that after your Wedding Day, you can tie them onto your beach bag, wrap them around your wrist or shoulders, and use them as head scarves to shield you from the burning rays of the sun.

What could be better than having one, single Wrap accessory to make your dream Destination Resort Wedding Dayboth functional….and perfect!?

As sexual roles began to blur in the 1960s,Yves Saint Laurentcarved a new identity that addressed the interplay between masculine and feminine.

White Stole continues its research into the history of one of the most famous “Couturiers” of all time precisely becauseSaint Laurent’sexploration led in 1966 to his creation of the first version of the androgynous look for evening wear: The Tuxedo, “Le Smoking.”This controversial “new” look which was feminized by pairing it with an organdy blouse with a soft bow.

Saint Laurentchallenged the customary codes of Evening Wear, which at the time were low-cut gowns for women and tuxedos for men, and went further to adopt menswear designs of the motorcycle jacket, the pantsuit, the trench coat, the aviator jumpsuit, and the safari jacket for his ready-to-wear line.

​This is the kind of innovation that is in the very heart of the White Stole Collection!

WithYves Saint Laurent’s launch of his ready-to-wear brand, SAINT LAURENTrive gauchein 1962, which pioneered the concept of Luxury Ready-to-Wear, his collections drew more and more inspiration from street life and pop culture.

Saint Laurent’sproclamation that“you no longer need to be rich to have style”became forever wed in the hearts and minds of his admirers the world-over.

AtSAINT LAURENT rive gauche,he proposed “options” whether for Street Wear, Evening Wear or Wedding Dress - leaving a woman to choose whatever combinations she wanted, making it possible for women of all ages and circumstances to express their individuality.

In every way,Saint Laurentanticipated the social revolution and dismissed the conventions and restrictions that anchored women’s fashion to the past. His choice of muses who were famous women in their own right, notably, Betty Catroux, LouLou de La Falaise,andPaloma Picasso,added to his unique ability to design for the many inspiring facets of a modern woman, and sealed in the minds of the fashion world his ability to exemplify the synchronicity between appearance and lifestyle.

Saint Laurentbelieved precisely matched outfits stood in the way of true self-expression. The search for a “Look” replaced the choice of an “Outfit.”

Loulou de La Falaisefamously declared, ‘An outfit was something that was determined earlier - whereas a look is an idea!’

Saint Laurent boldly introduced the influential Retro Movementto a younger generation tired of the casual hippie look but who saw Haute Couture as a symbol of inequality. With his ready-to-wear line, Saint Laurent offered an "alternative to Haute Couture," creating styles that were more affordable and easier to wear. Through his ability to read and interpret the events of the world, Saint Laurent’sstatus grew equal to that of rockstars’

Saint Laurent’sinfluence extended well beyond fashion to the Art World.

Saint Laurent’sfirst incorporation of fine art into fashion was the iconicMondriandress from 1965, which was a design based onPiet Mondrian’s 1920’s signature geometric composition that marked a breakthrough in modern painting. Next, Saint Laurent turned his attention to artists of his own era who embodied the youthful spirit of Pop Art. Andy Warholfamously proclaimed“This guy is the only designer in Paris who really belongs to the sixties because he’s part of the world around him and therefore understands it” – a notoriety that propelled him to the Celebrity Couturier status that stayed with him throughout his career.

White Stole has written about our embrace ofYves Saint Laurentas a Couturiercelebrated for his invitation to women to‘dress to express herself through clothing.’

Without question,Saint Laurentliberated our sense of style and invented a modern look that suited contemporary women’s status in society then…and now. But what is most treasured byWhite Stole’s Curators of Stole Style is his embrace of theStole, Shawl, Scarf, Cape and Bolero Accessory,

A critical moment inYves Saint Laurent’scareer was his first evening dress design at the beginning of the Autumn-Winter 1955 collection for theCouture House of Dior. This design of a black dress, draped with a white scarf worn by a woman astride two elephants in the now-iconic photograph byRichard Avedon, Dovima with Elephants,caused the sensation that would launchSaint Laurentto his iconic status we recognize today.

Later, his Parispink silk satin draped bodice with large bow atop black velvet skirt, created in 1983, paid homage to his ability to add the kind of design focal point that made him beloved the world over.

After discovering Morocco in 1966, Saint Laurent expanded his palette into what became a strong element of his style with the explosion of intense colors and the varied hues of traditional garments worn in the Medina. From black, which he considered a real color, to the exploration of a broad colorful palate, and particular love of pink and blue, Saint Laurent’s sensitivity to color is noticeable in every aspect of his style.

As lovers of Couture, we applaudSaint Laurent’s use of costume jewelry, which was the most inventive in the history of fashion and followed the themes of each of his collections. The importance granted to the Accessory- the Stole, Cape, Bolero, Shawl, ScarfandJewelry -established the Saint Laurent look and prefigured the contemporary era. White Stole especially admires how Saint Laurentadvised women without means to wear a very beautiful accessory over a simple skirt, a black sweater, and boots.

Together, we are swept into a full embrace of Saint Laurent’s praise ofStoles, Capes and Bolero Wrapsin the video footage of the1998 World Cupsoccer finals that contributed to the creation of Saint Laurent’s mythic persona. This outsized retrospective fashion show at the Stade de France offered him the opportunity to present haute couture to a truly global audience as stunned fans and viewers from all over the world watched three hundred models walk the runway on the floor of the stadium to the music of Ravel’s Bolero.

In the photos White Stolehas carefully curated from the retrospective of that runway show preserved by theFondation Pierre Berge – Yves Saint Laurent, The Perfection of Style,we witness thatSaint Laurentavoided the over-designed approach of many traditional haute couture garments. Instead, Saint Laurent focused attention on the beauty of the cut rather than superficial ornamentation – proving that the simplest dress can be more spectacular when brought to life with the perfect “Accessory.”

White Stole celebrates the Stole, Shawl, Cape and Bolero heritage created in all fabrics, materials and textures for us bySaint Laurent,and hopes you enjoy our favorite photos posted here for your pleasure.

Over the course of Yves Saint Laurent’s celebrated 44 year career from 1936-2008, the creative originality that made him beloved the world-over not only set the trends for his lifetime, but for lifetimes to come. While rejecting both traditional norms of how a woman’s ”outfit” should look as well as futurists idea of fashion, Saint Laurent invited women to ‘dress to express themselves through clothing.’

And to this invocation White Stole does embrace! What is most cherished in Saint Laurent’s sketches by lovers of Stole, Shawl, Cape, Bolero and Shoulder-Sweeping Style are the many ways YSL envisioned fabric,feather or fur to embrace the shoulders, arms, waist or neck of a Woman of Elegance and Style.

Yves Saint Laurent’s sartorial approach to fashion took women beyond the fluctuations of fashion to the realm of the “timeless” in fashion. Among the hundreds of sketches, drawings, photographs, production documents and original garments that the Fondation Pierre Berge – Yves Saint Laurentbrings to the world’s greatest museums, The Perfection of Style exhibit presents YSL’s everlasting contributions from both his Haute Couture Collections as well as his SAINT LAURENT rive gauche ready-to-wear line that became a global phenomenon after its introduction in 1966.

Unpublished documents from the Fondation’s vast archives span personal portraits of Yves Saint Laurent from the sophisticated paper dolls he crafted while just a teenager, to sketches from his early days as Christian Dior’s assistant which would mark him as a young prodigy and foreshadow his destiny as someone who would become one of the greatest Couturiers of all time, to drawings that stand as an amazing treasure-trove released for our deep pleasure.

As Curators of Stole Style, White Stole takes immense interest in the rare, behind-the-scenes look into the creative workings of Saint Laurent’s own Collection Boards featuring his sketches from 1962 to 2002 that retrace 40 years of the YSL Maison de Couture’s fascinating history.

Yves Saint Laurent’s creative process and power of “styling” women is vividly seen in these amazing sketches that White Stole was able to digitally capture here for our mutual adoration. These sketches stand as evidence of Saint Laurent’s contribution to the adoration of the Stole, Shawl and Cape in Couture, as well as in Streetwear styling. From the 1960’s onward, it is clear as fashion is long that Saint Laurent helped the world move out of a Post-War mentality and enter into the realm of Modernity - and the Stole Accessory played a significant part in that evolution!

The production of an Haute Couture garment was a complex process that began with sketches created by Saint Laurent of “ensembles” - known in America as “outfits” - which he later called “looks.” These drawings included specifics about ergonomics, “drape” and the equilibrium that must be maintained between the fabric and the body. Once Saint Laurent had created the sketches to his satisfaction, he would then meet with his chefs d’ateliers (workshop heads) to present his drawings for translation onto a toile - the preliminary garment made of white cotton.

Dear Yves, for all of us at White Stole. your archives are adored sketches that demonstrate to us that the power of style reaches well beyond the ephemeral fluctuations of fashion…. into the Timeless!

Over the 100,000 years that humankind has been making clothes, a special reverence for cloth shaped in the form of a Stole, Shawl, or Cape has prevailed in many cultures, resulting in a rectangular garment that relies on a depth of meaning and strong belief. Once worn in transformational situations, these shoulder coverings were not to be taken lightly. None originated from a view of clothes as utilitarian. A Shawl has been considered to be a garment that carries a special blessing as early as the 1800s.

In the long parade that fashion is, Indigo has played an equally important role for centuries. Indigo can be a color of leadership, of sacred significance, or of “blue collar” status, but it’s resilience has led to its use by farmers, fishermen and workers from France to Japan, from China to America throughout the ages.

Once artists discovered Indigo-bearing plants containing the gift of blue, an infatuation with indigo and a huge impact on our visual world began. Nothing compares with this dye’s ability to capture the blues of nature – a midnight sky, early dawn or an impression of the sea. It can also define a mood – of joy and vitality in the lighter variations, or of melancholy and mystery in the dark hues.

However, Indigo is a dye that demands discipline to use. Because of that, artists who make textiles that incorporate the color can be considered feats of dedication to create. Some creations posted here took thousands of hours to produce – requiring prolonged concentration akin to a meditative state. Others were made swiftly but with highly specialized skill and have a different kind of appeal.

In this blogpost, White Stoleshowcases the diversity of what the Shawl, Stole and Saronghave signified in cultures from the late 1800’s onwards – from theCeremonial to the Sacred Wedding - with 6 historical photos from around the world. Enjoy!

Photo 1 is a CEREMONIAL SHAWL (Pa Biang), ca. 1900 from Laos, Northern Tai Nuea peopleLong-nosed lions, serpent-headed birds are just two of the signs of a mythic imagination that inspired the creatures on this shawl. It implies a belief in the transformative vision of complex designs. Weavers have loaded the indigo background with an intricate diagram of ancient forms of hooks, spirals and stylized birds, serpents, and occasional people. Such a Shawl could serve as a facilitator of meditation, detachment and spiritual discipline.

Photo 2 is a CEREMONIAL SHAWL (Pa Biang), ca 1900 from Laos, Northern Tai Nuea peopleIntensely symbolic Shawls are covered with signs of a dense imaginary world. Embedded in the maze in this piece are diamond shapes derived from Buddhism to suggest a star, or third eye. Looking closely you may also spot a river dragon, or naga, who is guardian of the underworld. Notice how the maze is not asymmetrical. The weaver’s goal was “to help the onlooker discard all preconceptions of balance and, in meditation, to question the very order of life itself.” Explains Patricia Cheesman, author of Lao Textiles: Ancient Symbols- Living Art (1988).

Photo 3 is a SACRED SHAWL (Ulos Ragidup), ca. 1900 from Indonesian, Sumatra, Batak cultureSacred honor is bestowed whenever this type of shawl appears in Batak communities. It is a technically remarkable cloth with complex iconography that carries great significance. Wrapped around the shoulders of a person in transition at weddings, for pregnancy, and other life changes, it invokes speeches by chosen people whose great knowledge enables them to carefully observe the cloth and divine a way to enhance the wearer’s future.

Photo 4 is a SARONG (kain kapala), 19th century from Indonesian, Central JavaStep into a Sarong and you enter via a network of symbols that support your place in a cosmic sacred landscape. On this sarong, a dark Indigo night is set off against a breathtaking day, both nurtured with a constant drizzle of growth and fertility – visually, plants are thriving as they drift across petals, floating coconut fronds and entwined tendrils. Fireflies flicker in the night while phoenixes and butterflies fly through the air during the day. A sense of vitality is bursting off the cloth, ready to accompany the wearer when they are participating in ceremonies wherever they may go.

Photo 5 is a KASHMIRI SHAWL with RUMAL design ca. 1870 from the Indian, Kashmir area (for export to Europe), Dogra Dynasty (1846 – 1949)Kashmiri Shawlsonce ignited a covetous desire throughout Europe. They were made of a lovely soft goat hair and evoked the aura of a royal Mughal personage. French King Napoleon Bonaparte saw soldiers bring them back from India around 1800 and his wife Josephine soon had acquired hundreds. Given this overwhelming demand, Indian producers began assembling shawls like this one, which is a mosaic of small woven segments locked together with embroidery. Meanwhile, weavers in Paris and Paisley, Scotland wove silk imitations that have endured in waves of revival unto today.

“Once upon a time, or actually several times upon a time, Indigo was the most important dye in the world. At one point it helped prop up an empire, and then later it helped destabilize it. Ancient Egyptians used Indigo-dyed clothes to wrap their mummies, in Central Asia it was one of the main colors for carpets, and for more than three centuries in Europe and America it was one of the more controversial dye-stuffs, and it would have been familiar to people of many nationalities.” Victoria Finlay, Color: A Natural History of the Palette, 2002

When it comes to Wedding Gift Protocol,White Stoleis a big fan of Bridal Registries for how they simplify gift-hunting for family members of the bridal party, often eliminating duplicate gifts, but also serving as an easy way to direct Wedding Guests to their end-goal of the perfect Wedding Gift.

However, we have definitely entered a New Era of Weddings! Now, in our most modern and free Wedding Culture, you have permission to choose your own gift. Yes, you do! And often the most memorable gifts are those that guests select themselves.

The truth is, choosing gifts from the registry isn’t good enough for many people these days - especially for those people closest to the Bride who want to get her something extra special andpersonal. Close friends want to signal that they know something about, or have a special relationship with their Bride, and thus want to choose something more special than those who buy from the Registry. Close girlfriends are less likely to buy things her Bride needs from the Registry, and instead opt for presenting her with something she may secretly desire.

Consequently, with utter enthusiasm, White Stole is here to help you bring something inspiring to the Bride and her Wedding Party! And to boost your gift-giving motivation, take a sneak peak at a recent photoshoot of White Stole’s Curator and Stylist sporting a dazzling Silk Stole from the White Stole Gift Collection!

We recommend that you go with the style you know your Bride to have, complementing her style, OR, for max fun splurging on a Luxe, Couture and FABULOUSSilk Stole Wrap in an unexpected color or design, Your personal “Wedding Wishlist-for-your-Best-Girlfriend” is what she will adore!

And YES!….you do need to send a gift to a wedding you can’t attend. And if your Bride is a close friend of family member, yes!, it is good etiquette to give her a Wedding Gift for her second wedding. Ideally you should send it to your Bride ahead of time in the event she wants to incorporate it into her Photoshoot, Honeymoon, or Wedding Day plans.

And YES!...it is really tacky to just give cash even if many couples wouldn’t be offended. So go ahead, take a risk and give the kind of luxury that will warm her heart…and shoulders!

At White Stole’s pricing you needn’t feel “too generous” because our Direct-to-You pricing brings Couture to you at its most affordable - but we do encourage you to splurge on your special lady!

White Stole’s influentialItalian Luxury Couture Silk Wrapdesign and production of printed, solid and yarn-dyed luxury Women's Wraps in silk or cashmere use the traditional, heritage-based hand-dyed and silk-screened custom-manufacturing process that has long been used by our manufacturing companies in Como, Italy since 1945. The meticulous workmanship of our Silk Stoles are guaranteed to last a lifetime with proper care.

Whether you are having or attending a Country, Garden, City Chapel, Island Resort, Beach Wedding, or Gala Event, if you are in need of aLuxe Bauble for yourself, or that will serve as a ‘Thank You’or‘Adore You’Giftfor your Bride or Bridesmaids, look no further than the luxury-approved curation White Stolehas spent hours putting together.

The unexpected sets of Italian hand silk-screened, inspired colors and designs in White Stole's Silk "Gift" Stole and Shawl Wrap Accessories Collection will rock any bride and her guests past the ceremony and on into her lifetime. We have picked the perfect designs that will be cherished - and used -forever!

Much as been written about “How to have Good Karma on your Wedding Day.” In that line of thinking, the stylists at White Stole unanimously agree that the vision of“four bridesmaids all more beautiful than the other” wearing flowingCouture Silk Satin Stole Wrapsis superior to all the other Wedding Accessories available to you….and capable of channeling absolutely, positively, irresistiblyGOOD LUCK! Without question, if you are planning an “Urban or Country Vintage Wedding in Spring or Summer” anywhere, White Stole’s Stylists suggest you not try to “blend-in” to your scene carrying a tiny bouquet that you toss at the end of the day.Rather, we’d wish upon your silhouette that it be wrapped in a beautiful, artully-designed Couture Silk Stole that will emblazon, delight and carry the rapture of your Wedding Theme into your day’s festivities….and beyond into your life ahead!Whether you prefer your ValentinoEmbroidered Silk Stolein shades of pink, navy,beige orgray-black, White Stole has the Bridal Stole Wrap with hues that can be used to create the perfect “arm, elbow, wrist or neck accessory” and serve as the color palate for your entire Wedding Ceremony and Reception. This summer, walk your city’s streets to an outdoor Veranda Party in Wedding Style wrapped in the romance of a Silk Stole Wrap…and feel your Life Force!Shop the full ValentinoWedding Stole and Wrap lineup now and keep your eyes peeled for more wedding coverage from us throughout Summer Wedding Season.View White Stole’sentire collection for size and color ranges of Stoles, Stole Wraps, Vintage Stoles, Stole Capes, Shawls and Veiled Bridal Hair Accessories for purchase, or rental, on our website.

All of us at White Stole join you in constantly being on the look-out for the “Signature Code” to Impeccable Summer Veranda or Theme Wedding Style. We are always looking to our personal Divas and favorite fashion-forward women – both whom we know personally as well as those we see in the digital realm – in an effort to decode who naturally has the Je Ne Se Quoi we want for ourselves….especially on our Wedding Day!

And we collectively conclude, without a shadow of a doubt or a moment’s waiver, that the KEY to great style is a fabulously crafted, timeless Accessory that will elevate all-else we wear in one fluttering beat of our hearts! The only question is “how” to reach this nirvana?

In an effort to decode impeccable style, White Stole humbly suggests you invest in“High-Impact” “High-Quality” “Handmade” “Couture” “Timelessly Classic” pieces that will work the magic you want on your stylish-self’s life-to come!

To honor the idea of "Bold Luxury,"White Stole's"Spring Ribbons ~ Pink" CoutureBridal Stole Wrap Accessory in pure Silk Satin Chiffon from the Signature Valentino Collectionbecomes anySummer Theme Wedding'snext-big-thing with its flowing ribbon design in shades of pastel pink, rose and ruby on white that wraps sweeping highlights around shoulders, arms or neck.Make yourSummer, Bridal or Gala, Garden Veranda, Valentine's Day or 4th of July Theme Wedding Partysomething to dream about! Mix the traditional saying of “Tieing The Wedding Knot”with head-turning effect that will highlight and preserve your magnetic memories. The Sky’s The Limit! Simply choose this or another of the Couture designs from our favorite Valentino Silk Satin Shawl or Stole Wrap Collections. This iconic brands’ graphic collections feature rich embroidery and color blocking to add superb styling to timeless essentials, all with a decidedly coolModern Wedding flare!White Stolewas born to help you feel like the exquisite creature you are withCouture Luxury Accessoriesthat will last a lifetime…. at affordable, Direct-to-You prices....specially priced now under $300.00 per piece! View White Stole’sentire collection for size and color ranges of Stoles, Stole Wraps, Vintage Stoles, Stole Capes, Shawls and Veiled Bridal Hair Accessoriesfor purchase, or rental, on our website.

​It’s true that Floral-Printedanything is as ubiquitous to the season as the blooming buds, and rank high among the other motif you could be wearing during the warm-weather months ahead. As June marks the start of Summer Wedding Season,we honor the sunny days ahead with fun, patterned pieces sure to inject a bit of brightly hued cheer into your Wedding Wear wardrobe!Chances are your calendar is already full of wedding dates as we wrap our way into summer, and you are looking forward to a wide variety of ceremonies from vineyard to yacht to ranch, but by-far, one of the most romantic and memorable wedding backdrops is the age-old idea of aSpringGarden or Summer Veranda Wedding.And to toast to this occasion, White Stole humbly suggests a POP of pink and persimmon floral to a Bridal Wedding Partyset to the scent of anything from the Queen’s Rose Garden to Grandma’s gladiolas and peony patch!Bring a “cultivated” look and a treasure trove of floral to your Garden Wedding inWhite Stole's "Fabiola"CoutureBridalStole Wrap Accessory in pure Silk Satin Chiffon from theSignatureLeonard ParisCollection.You will treasure this divine pure silk Momento of your wedding day forever.

“Fabiola” is in full bloom putting pretty glamour into any summer wedding with its luxurious pastel floral iconic "Orchid" design in lush shades of rose pink, purple, pale gray and persimmon on blushed white that will wrap sweeping highlights around shoulders, arms or neck of your Garden Veranda Wedding Party!

Shop the full Wedding Stole and Wrap lineup now and keep your eyes peeled for more wedding coverage from us throughout Summer Wedding Season.

As Wedding Seasonis upon us, chances are you are invited to a Spring or Summer Wedding with a glamorous reception being held in a Classic City, Yacht or Country Club setting that is perfect for channeling spring's graphic trend.

To help you focus on celebrating the clear skies in your future, White Stolesuggests your inspiration begin with a sky blue and white palette that keeps the pattern focused to one piece - in this case the statement Silk Stoleworn by you and your Bridesmaids.

It is true that at most high-end shops, evening wear and luxury couture come with rather hefty price tags. Nevertheless, though the entire ensemble may be outside of your budget, Accessory Pieces are typically inside that arch. To the Style-Conscious, the best Accessories have somewhat of a primordial quality – lending a sense that you have captured a bit of the life you have secretly desired from the beginning of your time. With just a wisp or sheerest layer of silk or fur, you can convey the sense of delicacy or power you feel. ​White Stolewas born to help our Bride feels like the exquisite creature she is with Couture Luxury Accessoriesthat will last a lifetime…. at affordable, Direct-to-You prices!

​Your Yacht, Country Club, Veranda or City Wedding Galawill feel all tied up in Lovewith this flowing ribbon design that wraps brilliantly-colored, sweeping highlights around shoulders, arms or neck...taking simple blue and white into technicolor.

‘To express oneself and how one wishes to be to the world isn’t much different than how an artist views a figure or landscape’a biographer of Helena Rubinstein once said.

White Stoleis a big supporter of the view that how a woman chooses to craft her look and construct her identity is chiefly accomplished with the fashion and accessories she adopts.

And more importantly, that on the most important day of her life, challenging some norms – such as those surrounding weddings – simply are in order! Our Brides know that her own beauty is in her eyes as she beholds herself at it’s deepest essence. And expressing that self means not stepping into someone else’s fairybook Princess Wedding Story….but into her own!

May we humbly suggest that one of the most perfect ways to cultivate your inner feminine-self is with the soft, flowing look of pure Silk Chiffon in Couture Silk Floral Stole Wraps!

White Stole’s "Charming Rose" Bridal Wrap in Pink or Lilacfrom the SignatureValentinoCollectionoffers you asheer cascading rose design that not only wraps your future in a floral embrace, but gives a perfectly flowing Heirloom Gift for the Bride and Bridesmaids who know how to put the fun into elegance for a lifetime in any season from Spring to Summer!Delicately highlight your bridal party's silhouette with a rainbow of pastel shades from lavender and lilac, or pale pink to coral in any Spring or Summer, Garden Weddingsetting or season while giving yourself a pure Silk Momentoof your Wedding Day that you will cherish forever.

The women White Stoleloves to love have a deep desire to have, hold and “wear heraccessories for life"….then see them end-up in the hands of her daughter, her favorite nieces or cousins, or even a fashionable second-hand store where Style-Savvy young girls or Budget-Minded women will discover them 20 years later.